APPLE HILL — Even the smallest of communities has a war story to share with future generations.

The Apple Hill Remembrance Day Cenotaph ceremony holds a special meaning for Royal Canadian Legion Branch 423 (Alexandria) president Brian Caddell.

“It’s bigger thing for us,” Caddell said, of the family connection to Apple Hill veteran, Sgt. John Leo McDonald — his wife’s uncle, who was killed in action during the Second World War.

Caddell said McDonald was stationed at the Pembroke camp when he agreed to volunteer for the Western Front.

While crossing a river in the Netherlands, McDonald was struck by artillery shrapnel and died a few days later, Caddell said.

In family talks after the war, Caddell recounted a chance meeting McDonald and his brother, Duncan, who was also serving.

“They

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